At the moment the leaves are just now changing and we are experiencing St. Louis’ beautiful fall weather, but soon enough you’ll be pulling out your winter coats, shoveling the driveway and staying warm by a fire. Before the temperature drops, here are a few ways to prepare your home for the frigid St. Louis winter.
Sprinklers/Hose
Be sure to blow out and drain your irrigation system so that they do not freeze. Shut down and drain any outside spigots because they can and will freeze as well.
Lawn and Yard Maintenance
Many people don’t think about yard work when the temperature drops, but now is the perfect time to prune your shrubs or trim trees that might be getting a bit too close to your house. The last thing you need is a winter storm coming through and dumping snow and ice on a tree, causing it to collapse on your home.
Chimney Inspection
One of our favorite winter activities is spending time with friends and loved ones around the fireplace. But before you enjoy that first fire, it’s important to have the chimney inspected and cleaned if necessary.
Clean the Gutters
Once all of the leaves have fallen, but before the first snow is the perfect time to clean out those gutters. It’s also nice to get out there and clean them before the temperature drops too significantly, we don’t want you to freeze!
Inspect Your Heating System
Sooner than later you will be turning on your heat, and before it gets too cold outside, be sure to have your heating system inspected. You wouldn’t want a nasty surprise when you’re trying to warm up your house only to discover there’s something wrong. If you haven’t had your heating system inspected recently, at least change your filters.
Weather Stripping
Don’t let cold air come in your house, it’s not only frustrating and uncomfortable, but will also increase your heating bills! Get a door sweep or install weather stripping along windows that might allow drafts. You might even consider installing new, heavier curtains that are thicker and offer more draft protection.
Buy Winter Essentials
It might seem a bit premature to purchase ice melt and shovels now, but you’ll thank us! There is always mass hysteria when the weathermen predict a storm headed towards St. Louis. Undoubtedly there will be a shortage of ice melt and shovels at the local hardware store. Stock up early and avoid the crowds when the first storm comes.
It might seem like winter is ages away, but in a blink of an eye we’ll be preparing for a winter storm. Be sure to prepare your home as well!
